An Open Letter Regarding Tucson Pride

Based on feedback from our community, the members of Tucson Pride have learned that we need to be more open in communicating with you. I hope that this letter will open the door a little to the workings of your Tucson Pride board.

In 2009, when the economy suffered a downturn, Tucson Pride events suffered a loss in the amount of about $18,000. This loss was absorbed by the cash reserves that past events had produced.

In October 2010, the Pride events suffered a loss of about $11,000, which eradicated the reserves. Tucson Pride was not only broke; it was in the red.

Based on this knowledge, the 2011 Tucson Pride board made a decision to search for a venue that would allow us to reduce costs. Reid Park was too expensive. Kino Sports Complex was chosen. Board members stepped up and contributed funds, and secured a line of credit to ensure that there were funds available to plan and host the 2011 Pride events.

The 2011 Pride events produced a loss of about $500. This was a shortage of about $15,000 from the original budget plan.

Because board members stepped up and again contributed personal funds, we are currently only $2,200 in debt and are making monthly payments on that debt.

There is $150 in the bank. There are fundraisers coming at the end of June. If you are unable to attend and would like to donate, please go to www.tucsonpride.org, and click on the "Donate" button. All financial records are available upon written request.

The 2012 Tucson Pride board is making a commitment to put on fiscally responsible events. We again have looked at alternate venues to hold Pride in the Desert. Reid Park is not available, and we are considering the feedback from last year's event, as well as a survey this year. In addition, the board has made a decision that fiscal responsibility mandates reducing the size and cost of the Pride events. Both Pride on Parade and Pride in the Desert events will take place on Saturday, Oct. 13, at a location to be determined. Please stay tuned for details.

Consider joining others in your community who are working on planning Tucson Pride events, on the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Wingspan.